where
Reno, Nevada

what
Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity

when
September 13–17, 2023

For nonstop action, a fantastic horse sale, and a Western trade show filled with all the goods, head to Nevada for the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity. Held at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Event Center, reined cow horse fans and competitors come from all over to showcase their skills and appreciate the demonstration of athleticism.

The Facts: 3 | The number of times Nick Dowers has taken home the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Championship since its start in 2017.

The futurity is open to 3-year-old horses of all breeds, to be shown in three rounds of futurity competition: herd work, rein work, and cow work. From its inception in 2017, the event has aimed at preserving the tradition of Western reined cow horses in the West after the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity moved to its new home in Fort Worth, Texas. Alongside the Futurity, spectators can enjoy a horse sale that features select weanlings, yearlings, and broodmares, select 2-year-olds, and performance and ranch horses. Plus, the show includes a booming Western trade show where you can get a head start on your Christmas shopping. 

Don’t Miss This

explore.
You don’t have to go far from all of the cow horse action to get your shopping fix. Visit the 1. Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity Western Trade Show, an attraction for all Western enthusiasts. Find tack, jewelry, clothing, trailers, and goodies for your equine friend. Swing by the 2. Reno Snaffle Bit Horse Sale to scoop up a promising prospect or scope out available performance or ranch horses. 

eat.
Get a taste of Napa Valley at 3. Bistro Napa where you can’t beat the fresh, organic, and seasonal ingredients. Feed your caffeine craving at 4. Hub Coffee Roasters while enjoying the view of the Truckee River from their lovely patio. 

do.
To step back in time to the Old West, take a short, 20-minute jaunt southeast to 5. Virginia City, a former mining town and Western paradise filled with fun activities for the whole family.

Preserving History

The reined cow horse events have roots that trace back to California Vaqueros as they crafted their horses into the ultimate working partner. Needing horses that were light in the mouth and quick on their feet, these horsemen relied on a valuable cow horse to get the
job done.